Radiation therapy for recurrent cardiac undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma after three operations.

We report the case of a 57-year-old female suffering from recurrent malignant undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma of the left atrium. Metastasis to the posterior mediastinum was detected upon first presentation. Incomplete resections were carried out twice before mitral valve replacement was finally performed. The tumor recurred 16 months later and was treated with radiation therapy, which has proved to be effective in bringing about tumor regression for 2 years, to date. The patient has survived for 7 years since the first surgery.